When a vehicle is impounded, a licensed motor trader can often collect it on behalf of the registered keeper or owner. However, the pound won’t hand over the keys unless the correct paperwork is in order. Every trader acting for a client must prove their authority, their insurance, and their professional status before the vehicle can be released.

Proving authority to collect the vehicle

The first requirement is written authorisation from the registered keeper or legal owner. The letter must clearly state that the motor trader has permission to collect the car and should include:

• the keeper’s full name, address, and signature;
• the vehicle’s registration number, make, and model;
• the name of the trading business or recovery company authorised to collect it;
• the date and the pound’s name or location.

Without this letter, pound staff can’t release the car, even if the trader’s details appear legitimate. Some impound sites also ask for a copy of the keeper’s photo ID to confirm the authorisation.

Documents proving the trader’s identity and business

To show they are acting professionally, the person collecting the car should bring:

• photo ID such as a driving licence or passport;
• a copy of the company’s motor-trade insurance certificate showing the business name and cover for impounded vehicle recovery or road risks;
• evidence of business activity, such as a trade registration, garage invoice, or business card.

Some pounds may also request the vehicle transporter’s operator licence if a recovery truck is being used.

Proof of valid insurance cover

The most important part is the trader’s insurance certificate. It must be a genuine policy that allows driving or transporting other people’s vehicles, including those held in police custody or recovery compounds. Not all trade policies include this automatically. If the policy doesn’t mention impounded vehicles, the pound may refuse release. Traders should confirm with their insurer before attending the site to avoid wasted journeys.

Evidence of ownership or instruction

If the trader has bought the vehicle from the keeper, they’ll need a signed bill of sale or purchase invoice instead of an authorisation letter. If they’re collecting it for repair or resale, an email or written instruction from the owner may be acceptable. Each pound can set its own verification rules, but all require clear documentation linking the trader to the vehicle.

Payment for fees and storage

When collecting on behalf of a client, the trader must pay any release or storage fees directly to the pound before the car can leave. Receipts should be issued in the name of the registered keeper, not the trader, unless the vehicle has been sold or transferred. Some traders handle payment upfront and reclaim it from the client later, while others require the owner to settle fees in advance.

Recommended documents checklist

For quick release, a motor trader should take:

• Letter of authorisation or proof of purchase
• Photo ID
• Motor-trade insurance certificate (showing impound recovery cover)
• Business identification (invoice, business card, or trade registration)
• Receipt or proof of payment for pound fees

Final note

A motor trader can recover an impounded car provided they have the right paperwork and insurance. The essential items are written authority from the keeper, valid trade insurance, and professional ID. Arriving fully prepared avoids delays, prevents disputes at the pound gate, and ensures the vehicle is released lawfully and without complication.

Check here for more useful information about impounded cars!

Please note: impound rules, collection windows and fee structures are set locally and can change at any time. Details on this site offer a broad outline only and are not guaranteed to match the requirements of any individual pound or authority.